S-IMEW Where are they Now?

Carleton University
Research Geophysicist, Lamontagne Geophysics Ltd.

Michal Kolaj

Carleton University
Research Geophysicist, Lamontagne Geophysics Ltd.

S-IMEW not only provided me with a practical view of the mineral exploration industry but introduced me to a fundamental element of working in the mining community, the ‘art’ of networking. The organizers encouraged students like myself to speak with industry members and to develop the career connections required to be successful. Five years later, I continue to stay in contact with several of the industry professionals and other students that I met during this valuable student program.

Monique Ruhl

Dalhousie University
Exploration Geologist, Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd.

Monique Ruhl

Dalhousie University
Exploration Geologist, Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd.

Getting to meet an amazing group of new geo's and seeing where we go with our careers!

Nate Corcoran

Memorial University of Newfoundland
Regional Geologist, British Columbia Geological Survey

Nate Corcoran

Memorial University of Newfoundland
Regional Geologist, British Columbia Geological Survey

Meeting a great new group of cohorts made me appreciate the unique people in geology and mineral exploration. This made me want to continue working in the industry knowing the people I am working with are intelligent, adventurous, well rounded and appreciate the outdoors. Also, going underground in Quebec and seeing large bornite mineralization with silver veins come out of the ground made me keep in mineral exploration.

Nick Joyce

University of British Columbia
Lead Principal, Business Development, BHP

Nick Joyce

University of British Columbia
Lead Principal, Business Development, BHP

Looking back on it, the best part of S-IMEW was in building friendships and trusted connections with a cohort of high-potential peers that have since gone on to build some really interesting careers. In that sense, S-IMEW has become an important accelerator of talent in the industry.

Nicole Debond

University of Toronto
Environmental Scientist, Associated Environmental Consultants Inc.

Nicole Debond

University of Toronto
Environmental Scientist, Associated Environmental Consultants Inc.

S-IMEW was a great opportunity to meet like-minded people from across Canada, some of whom remain friends to this day!

Octavia Bath

Memorial University of Newfoundland
Project Geologist, Pretivm Resources Inc.

Octavia Bath

Memorial University of Newfoundland
Project Geologist, Pretivm Resources Inc.

S-IMEW not only solidified my interest in mineral exploration and mining but helped mould it into my passion and career. We were exposed to many different aspects of the mining world including both scientific research and industry. The workshop gave me an understanding of how truly diverse the sector is. I also made many contacts, and more importantly friends who I still have to this day

Paul Medici

Brock University
Founder and CEO, Medici Financial Modeling Inc.

Paul Medici

Brock University
Founder and CEO, Medici Financial Modeling Inc.

The S-IMEW organizers and PDAC staff were fantastic, the guest speakers were top-notch, and the students all shared a common bond – which made for a unique and memorable experience. Michael Doggett’s talk on Mineral Economics helped redefine my career path, as I transitioned from exploration to Equity Research following the workshop. I then obtained an MBA and went on to work for an industry-leading financial modeling training company. In 2021 I started my own firm which specializes in all things financial modeling, including the building and ongoing maintenance of corporate financial models.

Paul Stewart

Queen's University
Project Geologist, Uravan Minerals Inc.

Paul Stewart

Queen's University
Project Geologist, Uravan Minerals Inc.

S-IMEW to me was like summer camp for geologists. There are few things more fun than running around exploring the bush, underground mines and board rooms with a diverse group of young enthusiastic geologists. Rubbing shoulders with some heavy hitters in the junior and major mining space was also a bonus. S-IMEW was also a great crash course on what to expect working in the junior mining space. This was invaluable knowledge at the time as I began an MSc program in collaboration with a junior mining company shortly after the trip.

Perry Hohn

Mount Royal University
Project Geologist, Teck Resources Ltd.

Perry Hohn

Mount Royal University
Project Geologist, Teck Resources Ltd.

S-IMEW was an early-career catalyst, deepening my understanding of the mineral exploration and mining industry through unforgettable hands-on experiences. The workshop's blend of theory and practical exercises powerfully demonstrated the broad scope of opportunities available to a geoscientist entering the industry. Networking with industry experts and other students helped forged valuable life-long professional connections and friendships. S-IMEW significantly shaped my career, providing insights and opportunities that continue to influence my path in geology and mineral exploration.

Pierre Grondin LeBlanc

University of Toronto
Exploration Geologist, Agnico Eagle Mines

Pierre Grondin LeBlanc

University of Toronto
Exploration Geologist, Agnico Eagle Mines

My fondest memory of S-IMEW was meeting all the great people in my group!

Rachel Chouinard

Brock University
Project Geologist, Onyx Gold Corp.

Rachel Chouinard

Brock University
Project Geologist, Onyx Gold Corp.

Participating in S-IMEW further kindled my love for geology and working outdoors. My fondest memories of the course are the new friendships, gaining knowledge and insight into different facets of the industry, and being inspired by meeting other women in mining.

Rachelle Huppelschoten

University of Alberta
Senior Geologist, APEX Geosciencess

Rachelle Huppelschoten

University of Alberta
Senior Geologist, APEX Geosciencess

Fondest memory of S-IMEW/how S-IMEW helped shape/impact your career/path S-IMEW greatly impacted my choice of career path. Through the workshop I was introduced to new concepts, methods, commodities and deposits showcasing how diverse and multifaceted mineral exploration actually is. I wanted to experience everything mineral exploration had to offer and this is the reason I became a consultant, so that I could learn something new every day.

Rory Krocker

University of Manitoba
Project Geologist

Rory Krocker

University of Manitoba
Project Geologist

The workshop is where I met Scott Jobin-Bevans who was running the program at the time. It subsequently resulted in my first geology job working for his consulting company. This has come full circle in that I have recently began working with him again. All as a result of my S-IMEW trip. I forged some lifelong friendships, and learnt as much in those two week as any course I took. It was truly the highlight of my academic career.

Rosie Harris

British Columbia Institute of Technology
Geotechnical Technician, Norwest Corporation

Rosie Harris

Université Laval
Project coordinator, Agnico Eagle

British Columbia Institute of Technology
Geotechnical Technician, Norwest Corporation

My fondest memory of S-IMEW would have to be the networking events and the field mapping exercises. The field exercises taught me so much, I got to learn from geologists leading the exercises as well as from my fellow students. I came back from S-IMEW with improved field mapping skills that I have used in various jobs since attending in 2013. The networking events allowed us to meet industry professionals and gave us time to get to know our fellow students better. I still keep in touch with many of the people I met during my two weeks at S-IMEW.

Sara Pedneault

S-IMEW 2017

Sara Pedneault

S-IMEW 2017

Université Laval
Project coordinator, Agnico Eagle

S-IMEW significantly enhanced my comprehension of the industry and its various stakeholders. It played a crucial role in boosting my confidence and determination to make meaningful contributions to the mining and geological sector. The individuals we encountered during the S-IMEW were exceptionally inspiring, and I cherish wonderful memories from this field trip.

Sarah Jackson-Brown

Laurentian University
Program Coordinator, MineralsEd

Sarah Jackson-Brown

Laurentian University
Program Coordinator, MineralsEd

The biggest impact that S-IMEW has made on my life and career are the long lasting connections and friendships I made with both industry professionals and colleagues during and after the course.

Seamus Magnus

Lakehead University
Precambrian Geoscientist, Ontario Geological Survey

Seamus Magnus

St Francis Xavier University
Project Geologist, Regional Exploration and Resource Development

Lakehead University
Precambrian Geoscientist, Ontario Geological Survey

The coolest thing that I gained from S-IMEW was the nation-wide community of peers that myself and the other participants instantly became a part of. I’ve bumped into students from my year and others at a variety of conventions, meetings and field trips over the last decade; even at non-geology related events like a curling tournament! It’s nice to know that wherever I am in Canada, a friend from my year isn’t far away. It’s often said that the social world of geology is small, which is true; S-IMEW was a great introduction to that community!

Sean Freeborne

S-IMEW 2019

Sean Freeborne

S-IMEW 2019

St Francis Xavier University
Project Geologist, Regional Exploration and Resource Development

My fondest memories of S-IMEW are the sense of belonging it gave me early in my career. As a student, S-IMEW helped demystify the mining and exploration industry by connecting classroom learning with real people, projects, and career paths. Through events, mentorship, and networking, it showed me what was possible in the geoscience industry and helped me build relationships that I still rely on today. More than anything, S-IMEW reinforced that there is a place for motivated students in this industry and that early support played a meaningful role in shaping my career and professional involvement.

Sean Hillacre

S-IMEW 2015

University of Saskatchewan
President & VP Exploration, Standard Uranium Ltd.

Sean Hillacre

S-IMEW 2015

University of Saskatchewan
President & VP Exploration, Standard Uranium Ltd.

Attending S-IMEW was a transformative experience that bolstered my career as a professional geoscientist. Beyond the theoretical aspects, the hands-on experience gained during the workshop allowed me to refine my skills and apply them to real-world scenarios. Moreover, the lasting connections forged with industry experts and fellow attendees have proven invaluable, opening doors to collaborative opportunities, mentorship, and professional growth. S-IMEW not only enriched my expertise but also expanded my professional network, making it a milestone in my career journey as a geoscientist.

Shilika Mathur

M.Sc. Economic Geology & Geochemistry, University of Toronto
Project Manager, ERM

Shilika Mathur

M.Sc. Economic Geology & Geochemistry, University of Toronto
Project Manager, ERM

S-IMEW has helped shape my career path by providing exposure to the mining industry and different types of jobs that are available. In addition, S-IMEW provided the opportunity to network with industry professionals, some of which who have turned into mentors.

Siobhan Mcgoldrick

Dalhousie University
Senior Lab Instructor, University of Victoria

Siobhan Mcgoldrick

Dalhousie University
Senior Lab Instructor, University of Victoria

S-IMEW provided a wonderful overview of mining and mineral exploration. It was such an eye-opening trip that showcased the wide variety of geoscience disciplines and career paths in industry. Highlights for me were exploring volcanic rocks around Noranda with Harold Gibson, visiting the shatter cones in Sudbury, and getting hands-on experience with different types of geochemical sampling. I still draw upon topics we discussed at S-IMEW in my teaching today, and now have the privilege of nominating UVic students to attend S-IMEW!

Svieda Ma

Dalhousie University
Precambrian Research Geologist, Saskatchewan Geological Survey

Svieda Ma

Dalhousie University
Precambrian Research Geologist, Saskatchewan Geological Survey

S-IMEW was a unique and treasured experience that broadened my knowledge of the multifaceted mineral exploration industry. I had little prior exposure to the applied fields of exploration and mining, so I felt fortunate to learn from enthusiastic industry and academic professionals. My fondest memories are of the many field trips and, of course, all the people! It was wonderful to meet fellow students from across Canada and to network with professionals. The S-IMEW experience motivated me to become a well-rounded geoscientist. I am grateful for this opportunity and for the dedicated organizers and volunteers who facilitated such a memorable workshop.

Tara Harvey

University of Guelph
Co-Founder, CEO, blue marble learning scene

Tara Harvey

University of Guelph
Co-Founder, CEO, blue marble learning scene

S-IMEW was one of those experiences that I think about annually. The hands on experiences and skills I gained have helped me to develop educational materials to inspire a passion for geology through my own business.

Taylor Haid

University of Regina
Senior Geologist - AI Mineral Targeting, VRIFY

Taylor Haid

University of Regina
Senior Geologist - AI Mineral Targeting, VRIFY

S-IMEW was without a doubt one of the greatest opportunities and memories of my undergraduate career. The industry members who presented to us provided us with invaluable information on the business side of this industry, which you rarely receive in an academic setting. What has stuck with me most were the friendships and networks that were created with fellow students from all over the country. A decade later, these relationships are still strong, and it is a pleasure reconnecting and seeing the path through industry each individual has taken.

Thomas Gore

Laurentian University
Mineralogist, Ontario Geological Survey

Thomas Gore

Laurentian University
Mineralogist, Ontario Geological Survey

The two weeks spent during S-IMEW remain some of my fondest memories. The hands on workshops, field trips, and classroom exercises give a comprehensive and in-depth view into the world of geology, but it is the people that make the experience truly special. Between the organizers, volunteers, and alumni, S-IMEW has helped me build friendships and professional relationships that will last a lifetime.

Tim Cross

Acadia University
Specialist Geologist - Geometallurgy

Tim Cross

Acadia University
Specialist Geologist - Geometallurgy

S-IMEW opened my eyes to how diverse, interesting and well-funded the mining industry really is. My professors desperately wanted me to pursue a career in academia, but the S-IMEW trip gave me a taste for mining and exploration which has taken me around the world, from northern Canada to New Zealand to Australia. It was truly an honour and privilege to be invited and I’ll always be grateful for that experience.

Timothy Chadwick

Carleton University
Exploration G.I.T, TMAC Resources

Timothy Chadwick

Carleton University
Exploration G.I.T, TMAC Resources

S-IMEW provided me with an invaluable network base; both with industry professionals and young geoscientists starting out in their careers. This network has served me well in my career thus far, and continues to be a valuable asset.

Tony Knutson

University of Calgary
Global Head of Thermal Coal Market Research, Wood Mackenzie

Tony Knutson

University of Calgary
Global Head of Thermal Coal Market Research, Wood Mackenzie

Greetings from Washington DC! At the end of the S-IMEW experience, we were tasked with giving presentations to our group and staff on what the program meant to us. I was inspired to leverage the S-IMEW experience into the next step of my education. I was going to get a Masters like most people in the group. I went on and completed my Master of Earth and Energy Resource Leadership at Queen's University in 2020. I doubt I would have been inspired if I had not challenged myself at S-IMEW. Thank you to all of my S-IMEW 2016 friends and organizers!

Tyler Ciufo

University of Waterloo
Junior Geologist, Côté Gold Project, IAMGOLD Corporation

Tyler Ciufo